Why we like it: Rhys Darby may be losing some of his comedic lustre (and he probably hasn't helped himself with his column in the Herald), but he still hits the mark for 2degrees (extra points for taking the caravan that features in the ad to malls around the nation and providing passersby with 2degrees-branded cola and ‘Summer Smart’ ice blocks).

Why we like it: Tommy and Boris have been solid—and, judging by Colmar Brunton's most popular ads list, very well-liked—new mascots for Telecom this year. And this Christmas spot continues what's been a consistently good campaign. Nice surreptitious sideways glance at 'Santa' at the end too.

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It’s no easy feat to cut through the noise in the cosmetics aisle at the grocery store, but spotting a hole in the market, Earthwise Group managed to do just that. We take a look at this year's best emerging brand/business.

Couldn't agree more. It's everyone's problem now but brought on mostly by selfish farming practices. Rather than trying to get everyone behind it, they should be reporting on what they are doing to clear it up and provide regular updates.

1. Pollute waterways 2. Deflect blame to the general public This is definitely a 'you' problem, DairyNZ. The rest of us already do want clear waterways... that's kind of the point. Manifesto advertising doesn't work when your brand is trying ...

Genius From Elsewhere

1

John Lewis has called on Elton John for its Christmas spot this year, telling a story of how the musician found a love for music. With some questioning the intent of the spot, considering John’s upcoming tour, Adweekinvestigates how it all came to be.

2

An empowering wheelchair, a simple sofa and genius pantyhose are among Time’s 50 Best Inventions of 2018. The full list has now been shared online.

3

The National Business Review and its publisher Todd Scott have threatened to sue Newsroom for an article believed to defame NBR and Scott. The article in question covered former finance minister Steven Joyce's legal complaints over a Matthew Hooton column. According to Newsroom's report, NBR is demanding the article's removal, an apology and $15,000 towards costs.

4

While supermarkets and department stores deck the halls with their Christmas adverts, Burberry has gone for a more minimalist, yet star-studded video this year. The fashion brand opts to steer clear of that warm fuzzy festive feeling.

5

With all industries in Britain still in the dark about what a post-Brexit future holds, the Advertising Association and the Creative Industries Federation have weighed in on the subject. The Drum reports the AA is running a campaign to ensure the UK creative sector can continue to flourish regardless of what happens next.

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Why we like it: Clever Kash is back in the latest advert by ASB, but instead of telling us how to save money, he's focused on teaching kids how to save lives. First aid is an important skill for everyone, and empowering children to be able to make critical decisions when a loved one is hurt or unwell is nothing but a good thing.

Who's it for: White Ribbon by in-house team and Ocean Design and Lot23

Why we like it: No one can deny that New Zealand has a serious problem with violence, particularly violence towards women. It's heartening to see a bunch of White Ribbon ambassadors open up the conversation and invite all men – regardless of whether they've ever been violent or not – to stand up against the culture of violence in this country.

Who's it for: Tower Insurance by Barnes, Catmur & Friends Dentsu

Why we like it: Insurance ads tend to follow a similar pattern, but this one injects a touch of humour to make it memorable. We all know accidents are a huge disruption to a well-curated daily routine, but Tower has the solution.